What credit score do you need to buy a house?

Mortgage credit scores range from 300 to 850, with lenders typically using FICO Scores 2, 4, or 5. Conventional loans usually require a minimum score of 620, FHA loans 500-580 depending on down payment, VA and USDA loans often prefer 620, and jumbo loans need 680-700. Higher scores lead to lower interest rates. Improving credit involves timely payments, low credit utilization, and avoiding new credit. Options exist for low or no credit scores through specialized loans and alternative credit evaluations.